Thursday, January 29, 2009

Question: As a Groom, how can I get my points across to my Bride and her Mother? - Ryan McGill

Answer: Ryan, such a brave question and I'm so pleased to answer it for those that do not always feel comfortable stepping out and letting us know how or what they are thinking.

The truth is though, the best thing you can do is to just be honest and vocal. Your words will be much appreciated because when it comes down to it, this is your day too! There is nothing that your bride and family will want more than to know that your opinion has been heard and reflects in this day also. While it may sometimes seem difficult to get a word in with all the typical chaos of planning a wedding, most brides love it when their groom takes an active role in the process. So, please speak up and be proud to do it!

If you feel that when you try, your points are not addressed or not heard, try speaking to your planner and she may aid in making this easier.

Also, there are many websites which offer helpful tips and advice for Grooms. This trend is somewhat newer but definitely worth checking out when you are a groom and have questions. Some of my favorites are Groom Grove, The Man Registry and Groom's Club.

Good Luck and please feel free to email me if you have any additional questions or concerns.

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Question: My fiance and I have been together for almost six years. He loves my heart and says he thinks I live in a fairytale my questions is the dress... Should I go for a fairytale Cinderella like dress or a elegant bride womanly dress? I love both looks, both have a different feel what should I do? - Gina

Answer: Gina, I love your question! I feel so bad that you are genuinely struggling with this and hope my answer gives you some relief!

First, remember this is your day, so you need to go with your instinct or gut feeling on this. While your fiance may feel your living in a fairytale, ultimately if you are... then you wear your fairytale dress and feel proud doing it! He loves you no matter what and is going to be speechless from your beauty regardless of which dress you pick, what's important is how you feel.

So many brides have dreamed about their day from the time they were a little girl if you have always had a fairytale vision than I honestly believe you should proceed with this type of dress. However, if you are feeling the urge to go more modern and choose that elegant "womanly" dress, don't let your fiance's opinion of how you live steer you away. If you want that look, regardless of what is holding you back or making you hesitant, this is the one day that it is okay to go for it!

Another option would be selecting a dress that features characteristics from both gowns you like. Maybe a gown that has the long fairytale train or bustle you love but a fitted look or has the detail you love yet with a sexy vibe to it. Similar to this Ines Di Santo look. There are so many designers that create gowns which combine various styles to them. If you have the time go to several stores and try on as many different looks as you can. As you try each gown on you will get a feeling that will help you and hint to you what feels right.

My last suggestion to you would be to wear two gowns. If it is in your budget this is a trend that has become more and more popular over the years and enables you to satisfy both options. You can wear your fairytale dream gown down the aisle and long enough for your grand entrance and first dance and then slyly switch into your party dress for the remainder of the night. It's an exciting and fun secret to keep from your guests and your new husband! When selecting this option, I often suggest renting one of the dresses to avoid double the cost. Check out One Night Affair in Los Angeles for a great selection and reasonable prices.

I hope these options helped and brought some ease to your decision. If you need further input you can always email me and I will try and help you work through it.

Sunday, January 25, 2009

Our profile on The Knot is finally up! We are so excited to be a part of such a wonderful group of resources and can't wait to meet all the new Knot brides that come our way! In addition, we love that we were given the opportunity to put up a mini gallery within our profile too! Cheers!

Answer: Dear Anonymous, it's really all about priorities! For my budget brides, I typically have them complete a bit of homework in which you need to evaluate what is most important to you on your big day.

Here's how you can do this on your own. Create a list including the following options below.

Feel free to add anything else you can think of that you would like to include that is not on the list above. Otherwise read through the list and put the items in order of importance. What is most important to you and your fiance on your day? Is it where you get married or just what the room looks like? It it how you look or how your photos come out? Each aspect is important to people for different reasons. Once you have come up with your list with the items above in order of importance it will be that much easier to prioritize what is necessary and what is not. In doing so, it will alleviate the pressure when you create your budget because you will be able to allocate funds based on your priorities. If after doing your homework you still are facing trouble feel free to call our office and I will try and work through your budget with you.

Another option would be to hire a coordinator to allocate your budget and design your vision at the same time. We have experience with budget management and also have very strong relationships with key vendors that enables us to negotiate discounts. As far as our fee, we always make sure to include it within your budget so you are not spending extra for the services rendered.

Saturday, January 17, 2009

Answer: Dear Anonymous, do you mean your engagement ring? I'm assuming since you don't receive your wedding ring until during the ceremony that you mean the engagement ring, so I will answer based on that, however if this is not the case please email me to clarify and I can try to clear this up for you.

There is no true engagement ring etiquette per say. However, many brides do want to incorporate their engagement ring on their day by wearing it. While some brides leave the ring on their left and switch the placement after the ceremony. The most popular option when wanting to incorporate your engagement ring on your day is to wear it on your right hand until the ceremony concludes and you have your wedding ring on your left hand. Once your ring is placed on your left, you can then switch the engagement ring over to your left too. Another option is asking a family member or maid of honor to hold your engagement ring until after the ceremony, so your hands are pure walking down the aisle. Some brides leave their engagement ring at home until after the wedding and then begin wearing them together. It all is up to you and what you are comfortable doing.

Friday, January 16, 2009

I just wanted to repost some of the specials we are offering from the Bridal Show as I've had many inquries regarding what they were. Probably a hint that we should print them out for the next show!

Anyway, below is a breakdown of what we are/were offering to all our Bridal Premiere Brides (simply click on the image to make it larger). If your were not at the show but are still interested, I'm sure we can work it out as a New Year's Economic Stimulus discount (or something), so give us a call and we'll make sure to take good care of you too!

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Question: My sister won't call me back (we're not fighting), so I can't ask her to be in the wedding (she lives in Texas). How do I get a hold of her to be apart of my big day? When is it too late? -Megan Newland

Answer: Megan, I'm so sorry to hear such sad news over what's supposed to be the start of the greatest experience of your lives. I'm sure you just keep missing each other and if your sister knew what your calls were in regards to that she would feel awful. Here is what I suggest...

Sometimes when distance interferes, there are alternatives that can help you get your point across quicker than a lengthy game of phone tag. Try reaching out to a family member or friend that speak to her on a regular basis also. Or, look into sending her a message through another form of communication such as email or regularly through the mail. There are some wonderful and creative ways to ask others to be a part of your day. Here are a few...

Will You Be My Bridesmaid? Try mailing your sister this cute favor with a sweet card asking her to be an extra special part of your day.

Another cost effective option is to pick up a sisters themed picture frame from a local hallmark or target store, place a picture with the two of you inside and send a card along asking to be a part of your day.

As far as addressing when it is too late, I don't think it will ever be too late because I honestly believe that one of these methods will help solve the issue. If you can't get her to check your email, try sending a text message or voicemail leaving details to check her email.

If after all of your attempts you are still having an issue, I would speak to a parent or family member and maybe than can relay a time sensitive message without actually asking on your behalf.

I hope this information helps and please keep us posted on what ended up happening. Good Luck!

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Question: As a groom what is the best gift a man can get her bride on the "big" day? - Bennett Smith

Answer: Bennett, that is such a great question for you to ask and I'm so happy that it's the first one I picked out of our vase.

A groom could send his bride flowers with a love letter, jewelry or even just an exceptionally mushy card sprayed with his cologne on the day of. What's most important is really the effort and thought that is put in prior to the act of actually giving the gift. This is a gift that has no monetary value whatsoever and is strictly from the heart. The fact that your asking shows you are putting that effort in and your bride should feel very special.

This is the last act of giving a couple experiences prior to exchanging vows so I always advise my brides and grooms to make it something you know is meaningful to each other. For both, I always try to suggest it to be something they can take or wear with them down the aisle. For a bride if your budget is flexible, I do suggest a piece of jewelry she can wear as she walks down to you, whether it's something simple, pearls or diamonds, whichever you think she'll love the most. If your budget is a bit more modest, how about an embroidered handkerchief she can tuck in her gown for the teary moments. I suggest having them personalize it with something sentimental. Perhaps, "To my Bride, My Love, My Soul mate", "Can't wait to marry you" or "For the love of my life on our wedding day", with the date of course.

If either of these don't sound appealing to what you think your bride would love. Check out these additional gifts for your bride on your special day.

2. Engraved "On This Day" BottleA beautiful bottle keepsake that engraves a special poem or can engrave words your write on your own. Something your bride will cherish and can place in your home.

3. May Our Marriage PlaqueA gorgeous plaque for the sentimental bride to let her know your hopes for your marriage.

4. Photo Memory BookCreate a memory photo book of your relationship and the path you took together. Use all of the images you can find that lead up to your special wedding day. This is one of my most favorite gifts to see a bride or groom receive. It's so special and definitely a wonderful way to create something to share over many years to come. You can make a book like this at any photo website, however shutterfuly is offering 25% off their memory books right now.

5. Wedding RoseA beautiful preserved rose in the metal of your choice with your names imprinted on it. A really sweet sentiment and still simple at the same time.

I hope these items help you you find one that is just perfect for your bride!

Good Morning All!I'm very excited to let you know that we had an amazing turnout for the Bridal Premiere Show.

We decided to make it interactive by asking all our brides to stop by the booth and fill out a note card with any wedding related question they had. In turn we will be taking their questions and answering them all week long on the blog. The response was great and we have some wonderful questions we will be addressing. At the end of the week, we are going to have our staff vote for the best question. The best question will receive a surprise gift.

Stay tuned for more details regarding the prize for the best question.

Please feel free to comment on the postings with your opinions, comments or even additional answers. If you also feel one of the questions addressed deserves the best question prize, please comment and let us know!

Keep checking back all week long for answers to some really great questions!

Sunday, January 11, 2009

Come visit us this Sunday from 11:00am to 4:00pm at the Hyatt in Westlake Village. We'll be showcasing some amazing floral designs and offering out of this world specials on our services. In addition, we have some tasty treats for you as well!

Here are the details as reported in The Acorn...

The Bridal Premiere, a day of wedding exhibits and fashion shows, will be on Sun., Jan. 11 at the Hyatt Westlake, 880 S. Westlake Blvd., Westlake Village.

Exhibit hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and fashion shows will be at 12:30 and 3 p.m.

Tickets are $10 at the door and $8 at www.bridalpremiere.com. Discount coupons, good for up to four people, are also available online.

The event offers a day filled with ideas, expert advice, and prizes for the bride-to-be and her groom.

The first 100 bridestobe to arrive will be entered in the drawing for a Hyatt Weekend Package. All attending brides-to-be will have the opportunity to win a Mia Solano bridal gown. A sample gown may be seen in the fashion show. The winner will have her choice of a variety of gowns.

The Hyatt Weekend and the bridal gown will be drawn following the second fashion show. Winners must be present to win.

The ticket of each bride-to-be will be placed in the "enter to win" box for onstage drawings. A wristband will allow the future bride to come and go from the show site, and she will be given a bride's bag filled with an assortment of major bridal magazines.

This year's show offers 63 vendors who will answer questions, provide advice and pricing, and assist brides-to-be with all aspects of wedding planning.

Thursday, January 08, 2009

I'd love to share with you one of my most favorite sites to find greats deals. It's SmartBargains and it's amazing. From things for the kitchen to sheets to shoes, they always have great deals and the quality is definitely up to my standards too.

Eye-catching and modern, this 16-piece "Sweet Dreams" dinnerware set from Godinger is ideal for adding a touch of up-to-the-minute style to your kitchen or dining room. The dainty dandelion design adds sweet, dreamy style.

Any holiday party is a success with the help of these four exquisite and festive cordial glasses from Kosta Boda. Unique snowflakes dance across sparkling crystal-clear glass; the classic shape is elegant and stylish.

FeaturesSet of four handmade "Orrefors" cordial glasses with a snowflake patternEach glass is unique, with a different number of snowflakes in many stylesMade of glassEach glass measures 7.63" high and holds 4.6 oz.

Brew your morning cup of joe in any size you like with a regular or extra bold flavor using this single serve coffeemaker. You won't waste coffee as you savor your solo cup, and you can rely on the automatic shutoff when you need to rush out the door.

FeaturesCuisinart "Cup-o-Matic" single serve coffeemakerLow pressure pump and boiler system with patented tamping and sealing method for better tasting coffee Can select cup size between 4 to 12 ounces and regular or bold coffee brew; removable drip tray can accommodate coffee cup from 4 ounces to Cuisinart's travel mug (170mm) 2 minute pre-heat time and charcoal water filter removes impurities; water level indicator on frontBrew basket can accommodate coffee pods as well as ground coffee and 75- ounce water reservoir holds up to ten 6-ounce cups of coffeeScoop with brush included; easy to cleanAuto shut-off, 2 hours from last use

While all their bed and bath deals are pretty great, I especially love the ones with the high thread counts and extra pillow cases included!

Catching up on your beauty sleep has never been so...luxurious. With a super-deluxe 600-thread count and 100% cotton sateen, this premium sheet set is oh-so soft for a difference you'll feel every night and day. Just make sure to set your alarm.

Tuesday, January 06, 2009

There's a new site in Los Angeles that I definitely recommend checking out. It just debuted this week and already seems to be buzzing.

Style Unveiled Los Angeles is a new guide which provides the best of resources, stylish advice and of course inspiration. They have some amazing areas of the site including their Eco-Chic section, The Runway and general advice on tying the knot. In addition, you can view their featured weddings, check out their blog called The Lounge and read helpful articles like the inspirational Couture Coloure.

The site created by Heather Sharpe, originated in Seattle and seems like it will be popping up in cities near you soon! Check out Seattle Style to see more of what's to come on LA's site!

The history for tossing the bride's bouquet dates all the way back to the 14th century in France. On her wedding day, a bride was believed to be especially lucky. Guests would charge toward the bride as the ceremony concluded in hopes of tearing off a piece of her gown. In doing so, they brought her gown pieces home for their own good fortune. This chaotic behavior often became quite wild and dangerous. To protect herself, brides came up with the idea of throwing their stockings and/or garter. This worked for a short time until brides began to rebel and reject the new idea. It was then that brides began tossing the bouquet and switched the ritual. This tradition has stuck with brides ever since and aided in ensuring that the groom is really the only man that the gown truly goes home with that night.

Don't' forget to make sure you ask your florist to make you a toss bouquet so you can hold on to your actual bouquet.

If you are not a fan of tossing a bouquet here are a few other options that still involve your guests.

▪ Ask your florist to create a breakaway bouquet where it is only held together by a ribbon. Right before you toss the bouquet undo the ribbon and this allows multiple people to catch your luck.

▪ Choose a close friend or relative to dedicate your bouquet to, give the bouquet and pass your luck on at the same time.

▪ Together with your fiance decide on a couple that represents the type of marriage you wish to have. Honor them by giving the bouquet to them and saying a few short words on why they equate what you hope to be.

▪ Ask your DJ, Band or MC to arrange an anniversary dance. This is where a song is played and all the married couples dance. While they are dancing your MC auctions off time frames, such as 6 months or 5 years and so forth to represent the length of time they have been married. As each time is said couples stay on the dance floor until their time has been announced. Eventually there will be one couple standing and this is the couple that shall receive your bouquet. Passing your bouquet to the couple together the longest to signify your luck for your future together.